La Paz: Day Cruise & Snorkelling (w/sea lions) Food & Drinks

Imagine spending a few hours on a luxury boat, surrounded by turquoise waters, playful sea lions, and a vibrant underwater world, all while enjoying gourmet snacks and drinks. That’s exactly what the La Paz Day Cruise & Snorkelling experience promises — and, based on what travelers say, it delivers more than just postcard-worthy views.

What we love about this tour is its flexibility — you can tailor the itinerary to your interests, whether that’s exploring secluded beaches, swimming alongside sea lions, or just relaxing with a drink in hand. The personalized service from the crew is another highlight, making it feel more like a day out with friends than a commercial tour. Plus, the inclusive amenities like top-notch snorkeling gear, an open bar, and gourmet snacks elevate the experience.

However, one consideration is the duration, which is relatively short at just three hours. If you’re looking for a full-day adventure, this might feel a bit limited. Also, the tour is best suited for those comfortable on boats and confident swimmers, as it involves some physical activity and water-based fun.

This experience is ideal for travelers who value luxury, customization, and engaging marine encounters. Whether you’re visiting Baja for a quick trip or seeking a memorable, intimate outing, this cruise offers a great mix of relaxation and adventure.

Key Points

• Private & personalized: The tour is exclusive to your group, allowing for a tailored experience.
• Marine life encounters: Expect to see sea lions, tropical fish, and possibly sea turtles.
• Luxury amenities: Open bar, gourmet snacks, and top snorkeling equipment included.
• Flexible itinerary: You can choose your preferred snorkeling spots and beaches.
• Ideal for water lovers: Perfect for swimmers, water activity enthusiasts, and wildlife admirers.
• Limited duration: The tour lasts around 3 hours, suitable for a half-day adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Experience in Detail

The Starting Point: Marina Palmira

Your journey begins at Marina Palmira, a well-equipped and accessible docking area in La Paz. This location is convenient for most travelers staying in the city, and the crew emphasizes promptness and preparation. Arriving a bit early (which is always smart for safety and paperwork) also gives you a chance to soak in the marina’s atmosphere and get acquainted with your crew.

The Yacht: Your Floating Oasis

Once aboard the private yacht, you’ll notice how spacious and comfortable it is, with plenty of seating and shaded areas to relax. The yacht is equipped with premium amenities, ensuring a smooth ride across La Paz Bay. The boat’s size (up to 10 people) helps create an intimate setting, perfect for conversations and taking in the scenery.

The Snorkeling & Marine Life

The real star of this experience is the marine life. Guides are attentive and highly knowledgeable about the local ecosystem. They help you utilize the provided snorkeling gear — which many reviewers say is “top-notch” — and point out the best spots based on current conditions.

Expect to see colorful tropical fish, perhaps a curious sea turtle or two, and most notably, the sea lion colony. Several reviews mention how the sea lions are friendly and playful, often swimming closely or jumping out of the water to greet you. One guest shared, “Swimming next to the sea lions was like being in a documentary — so close and lively.”

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Secluded Beaches & Balandra Bay

Beyond snorkeling, the tour takes you to secluded beaches and the famous Balandra Bay. You might enjoy lounging on a water mat, paddling along calm waters, or simply soaking up the sun on pristine sands. The boat ride itself provides stunning views of La Paz’s coastline, with plenty of opportunities for photographers.

The Food & Drinks

On board, you’ll find an open bar offering water, soft drinks, juices, beer, and spirits — which is a huge plus for those looking to unwind. The gourmet snacks and light lunch included are described as “delicious,” adding a touch of luxury to the experience. Guests often mention how well the crew caters to dietary preferences and keeps everyone refreshed.

Personalized Service & Flexibility

Unlike larger group tours, this private experience allows the crew to customize your visit. Want to spend more time swimming, or perhaps skip a stop and explore somewhere else? The crew is accommodating. From actual reviews, we know that guides like Miguel and Rosa are friendly, attentive, and eager to share their knowledge about the local marine environment and geography.

Practical Details & Considerations

The tour lasts roughly three hours, making it easy to fit into a day of exploring La Paz. Since it’s a private group, you won’t be with strangers, which enhances comfort and flexibility. The cost is $1,349 for up to 10 people — which works out to around $135 per person if you’re a full group, offering good value considering the inclusions and exclusivity.

You’ll need to bring essentials like a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen. The boat trip isn’t suitable for non-swimmers, babies under 1 year, or people prone to seasickness, so plan accordingly.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What Makes Each Stop Special

Start at Marina Palmira

Getting underway from a well-equipped marina ensures a smooth launch. The crew emphasizes punctuality and safety, setting a relaxed but professional tone.

Cruising the Bay (45 minutes)

This is the perfect warm-up — enjoy the views of La Paz’s coastline, and get comfortable on the yacht. Guests often mention how peaceful and scenic the ride is, with many capturing photos of the shoreline.

Snorkeling & Wildlife Spotting (45 minutes)

This is the core activity. You’ll visit specific snorkeling spots, identified based on current marine activity and marine life sightings. The guides’ local knowledge ensures you see the most vibrant fish populations and possibly encounter playful sea lions. Many mention how friendly the sea lions are, sometimes swimming right next to snorkelers.

Short Break & Beach Time (roughly 45 minutes)

Here, you can relax on a secluded beach or enjoy water activities like paddleboarding or floating on a water mat. The calm waters of Balandra Bay are praised for their clarity and tranquility, making it perfect for lounging.

Return Journey & Docking (45 minutes)

As you head back to Marina Palmira, you’ll reflect on the highlights — the underwater encounters, the scenic views, and the luxury of the experience.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Considering the price, the tour includes guided marine encounters, top snorkeling gear, beverages, snacks, park fees, and boat transport. The personalized service and flexibility mean you’re not just another passenger but an active participant in your adventure. For travelers seeking an exclusive, relaxing, and engaging experience with authentic wildlife interactions, this cruise checks many boxes.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you’re looking for a luxurious, intimate day on the water. It’s especially suited for those who want to combine marine adventure with comfort, or travelers who prefer customized itineraries over cookie-cutter group tours. It also appeals to wildlife enthusiasts eager to see sea lions and tropical fish in their natural habitat.

If you’re not comfortable on boats, or seeking a full-day excursion, you might want to consider other options. That said, for a half-day escape into Baja’s marine wonderland, this tour hits the right notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
It’s not recommended for non-swimmers, as snorkeling and swimming are core parts of the experience.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen to stay comfortable and capture your memories.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the crew offers flexibility to visit preferred snorkeling spots and beaches, depending on your interests.

What is included in the price?
Guided tours, snorkeling equipment, light lunch and snacks, beverages, park fees, and a dinghy ride to and from the beach.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, making it suitable for a half-day adventure.

Are there any age restrictions?
It’s not suitable for babies under 1 year, non-swimmers, or those prone to seasickness.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour private or group?
It is a private experience, perfect for your group up to 10 people.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Marina Palmira, dock number 3.

Can I book this activity and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for your trip planning.

Final Thoughts

For anyone craving a luxurious, customizable day on the water surrounded by Baja’s stunning marine life, this La Paz cruise offers an ideal blend of comfort, adventure, and wildlife encounters. The inclusion of gourmet snacks and drinks, along with expert guides, makes it feel special without breaking the bank.

While it’s best suited for confident swimmers and those wanting a relaxed but engaging aquatic experience, the tour’s private nature and tailored approach make it a standout for travelers seeking exclusivity and genuine wildlife interactions.

If you love snorkeling, wildlife, and scenic boat rides, and prefer an experience that’s as comfortable as it is adventurous, this day cruise will not disappoint.

Disclaimer: Always check availability and confirm details directly with the provider as offerings can change.

You can check availability for your dates here: